Karis Wish

Hundreds from the Seward community and well-wishers from across the state joined together to celebrate with a special parade for a 5-year-old girl with leukemia and a wish to go to Walt Disney World.

Supporters gathered in downtown Seward, cheering for Karis Crosmer, daughter of Josh and Lori Crosmer along a two-block parade route. Led by the “Pride of Seward High” Bluejay Marching Band and a police escort, Karis paraded two blocks to Town Hall in a horse-drawn carriage, where Mayor Josh Eickmeier, with the wave of a magic wand, declared it “Princess Karis’ Day” in Seward.

“Prince Charming,” Brady Fitz, a Concordia University student, revealed to Karis her wish was being granted - she and her family are going to Walt Disney World® Resorts in November.

"We're grateful that the Seward community has welcomed us with open arms,” said Lori Crosmer. “The city and Make-A-Wish have gone above and beyond to make this a very special once in a lifetime experience for Karis and our family!"

Make-A-Wish® Nebraska and other special guests created the ultimate enchanted experience for the blonde-haired, bubbly little girl who was diagnosed with leukemia in 2014, said Brigette Young, President and CEO of Make-A-Wish Nebraska.

“We know that granting a wish to a child has positive mental and physical effects on them,” Young added. “Wishes complement a child's medical treatment, and give them the hope, strength and joy they need to fight their illness.”